Systems, methods, devices and arrangements for emergency call services

ABSTRACT

A variety of methods, systems, devices and arrangements are implemented for emergency call centers. According to one such method, a location database is populated from a plurality of endpoint devices. The location database determines locations for nodes in a data transmission route from information received from the endpoint devices. Emergency calls using these nodes are located using the populated database.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to emergency call services andto systems, methods and devices for use with emergency call centers.

BACKGROUND

Emergency call centers are currently implemented using Public SafetyAnswering Point (PSAP) call centers. The PSAP call centers aretraditionally assigned to handle calls from specificgeographically-defined areas. Incoming calls are automatically routedaccording to an association with the location of the calling telephonenumber via its registered telephone number. Specifically, the calls arerouted to the appropriate PSAP for that address. The caller's addressand information can then be provided to the PSAP operator automatically.

In a specific implementation, Automatic Number Identification (ANI) datais provided by the telephone company. This ANI data identifies thenumber of the calling party, such as used with caller-ID functionality.Using the ANI data, a physical location for the caller is determined byaccessing a database having associations between telephone numbers andphysical locations. The call is then routed to a specific PSAP forhandling by an operator.

This model works relatively well for traditional land-line telephonesbecause telephone numbers for traditional telephones are associated witha physical line that is controlled and defined by a telephone serviceprovider. Thus, the associations between telephone numbers and thephone's physical location are relatively static and easy to maintain.

The traditional telephone lines are rapidly being supplemented anddisplaced by a variety of new technologies. Many of these technologiesprovide a caller with new mobility options not available with atraditional land-line telephone. Examples include cellular telephonesand Internet-based communications devices. A variety of solutions havebeen proposed or attempted to account for new and emerging technologies.Overall, the results have been less than satisfactory, in part, due to apiecemeal solution and/or extensive changes to existing technology.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the present invention are directed to addressing challengesto providing emergency services including those discussed above, andthat are applicable to a variety of voice and data applications,devices, systems and methods. These and other aspects of the presentinvention are exemplified in a number of implementations andapplications, some of which are shown in the figures and characterizedin the claims section that follows.

Consistent with one embodiment of the present invention, a system isimplemented for use with an emergency call center and Voice-overInternet Protocol (VoIP) devices. A plurality of endpoint devicescommunicate with a location-determination server. The endpoint devicesinclude a location circuit for providing physical location data aboutthe physical location of the endpoint device. A processing circuitgenerates a data packet containing the physical location data from thelocation circuit. Output port(s) send the generated data packet to thelocation-determination server. The location-determination serverreceives the data packets from the plurality of endpoint devices anddetermines the nodes in a transmission route used from the plurality ofendpoint devices to the location-determination server. Thelocation-determination server calculates a physical location for each ofone or more of the determined nodes as a function of the physicallocation data in said one of the data packets. Thelocation-determination server stores the calculated physical locationfor the one or more of the determined nodes. An emergency server, inresponse to an emergency call from a VoIP device, identifies one or morenodes in a transmission route used to send data from the VoIP device.The emergency server retrieves the calculated physical location for theidentified nodes and provides the retrieved physical location to anemergency operator.

Consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a systemincludes one or more servers configured and arranged to provide VoIPservices to a plurality of endpoint devices; identify a request foremergency services from at least one of the endpoint devices; identifynodes used to transmit from at least one of the endpoint devices to theone or more servers; determine a location information for the at leastone endpoint device as a function of the identified nodes; identify anANI number other than the number assigned to the endpoint device as afunction of the determined location information; and connect theendpoint device to a PSAP service while providing the identified ANInumber thereto.

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a gold standard devicethat includes one or more communication ports for connecting to anetwork access point; a processing circuit that includes a processor anda tangible storage medium, the tangible storage medium storinginstructions that when executed by the processor perform the steps oftransmitting, to one or more network access points, a request to send aunique identifier to a location determination server that is remote fromthe one or more network access points; and transmitting locationinformation to the location determination server with informationcorrelating the location information to the unique identifier.

An embodiment of the present invention is directed towards a computersystem that has one or more computer servers. The computer serverincludes at least one computer processor; and a tangible storage mediumthat stores computer instructions that when executed by the at least onecomputer processor perform a set of steps. The steps include receivingphysical location data from a plurality of endpoint devices associatedwith corresponding user accounts; determining nodes in a transmissionroute between the plurality of endpoint devices and the computer server;calculating a physical location for one or more of the determined nodesas a function of the received physical location data; storing thecalculated physical location for the one or more of the determinednodes; and transmitting incentive-based feedback to a device associatedwith a respective user account.

Embodiments of the present invention relate to computer systems thatinclude one or more computer processors, logic circuitry and/or one ormore tangible storage mediums storing a set of instructions that whenexecuted by the one or more computer processors cause the computersystem to perform the steps of: receiving an emergency service requestfrom an endpoint device; receiving physical location information of theendpoint device; receiving access node data that identifies an accessnode used by the endpoint device to send the emergency service request;and transmitting a broadcast request to the identified access node, thetransmission of the broadcast request implemented using a protocol thatnotifies the identified access node that endpoint devices serviced bythe identified access node should be notified of emergency conditions.

Consistent with another embodiment of the present invention, an endpointdevice is provided that does not have bidirectional audio capabilities.The endpoint device includes a computer processor; a network interface;an emergency circuit; a tangible storage medium configured to storeinstructions that when executed by the computer processor: detect theactivation of the emergency circuit; connect, in response to detectingthe activation of the emergency circuit, to an emergency system via thenetwork interface; and communicate with the emergency system via thenetwork interface.

Yet another embodiment of the present invention is directed towards asystem that includes a plurality of endpoint devices each having alocation circuit configured to provide physical location data about thephysical location of the endpoint device; one or more external ports forcommunicating data to an external network; and a processing circuit. Theprocessing circuit is configured to generate one or more populating datapackets containing the physical location data; and transmit thepopulating data packets to a remote location-determination server. Thesystem also includes at least one location-determination serverconfigured to receive the populating data packets from the plurality ofendpoint devices; determine nodes in a transmission route between theplurality of endpoint devices and the location-determination server;calculate a physical location for one or more of the determined nodes asa function of the physical location data in the populating data packets;store the calculated physical location for the one or more of thedetermined nodes; identify, in response to an emergency request from anemergency-capable endpoint device without bidirectional audiocapabilities, one or more nodes in a transmission route used to senddata from the emergency-capable endpoint device; retrieve calculatedphysical location data for the identified nodes; determine a probablephysical location for the emergency-capable endpoint device as afunction of the calculated physical location data for the identifiednodes and a probable location algorithm; provide the determined probablephysical location for the emergency-capable endpoint device to anemergency operator; and establish a non-audio communications linkbetween the emergency operator and the emergency-capable endpointdevice.

The above summary is not intended to describe each illustratedembodiment or every implementation of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention may be more completely understood in consideration of thefollowing detailed description of various embodiments of the inventionin connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A depicts a system diagram including a location database for usewith PSAP locations, consistent with an example embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 1B depicts an endpoint device for providing data to a locationdatabase, consistent with an example embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 depicts a routing path with various nodes and associatedlocations, consistent with another example embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 3 depicts a diagram of nodes, their respective determined locationsand susceptibility to changes to the determined locations, consistentwith another example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 depicts a diagram of two geographically different PSAP areas andassociated portioning according to specified ANI numbers, consistentwith another example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 depicts a diagram for determining and using a location algorithm,consistent with another example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 depicts an Internet-enabled device with an emergency circuit,consistent with an embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 7 depicts a system for calculating and assigning incentives forproviding populating data, consistent with an embodiment of the presentinvention.

While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternativeforms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in thedrawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood,however, that the intention is not to limit the invention to theparticular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is tocover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling withinthe spirit and scope of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is directed to emergency call centers includingcalls initiated over a network, such as the Internet, and relatedapproaches, their uses and systems for the same. While the presentinvention is not necessarily limited to such applications, variousaspects of the invention may be appreciated through a discussion ofvarious examples using this context.

Aspects of the present invention relate to systems, methods and devicesthat are useful for providing emergency services to the public. Thevarious embodiments and components discussed herein can be particularlyuseful as part of a forward looking and comprehensive emergency responsesystem. Notwithstanding, the various embodiments can also be implementedindividually or in selective combinations. Effective combinations andmodifications of the various embodiments are not limited by the specificembodiments disclosed herein.

One implementation, particularly useful for addressing a variety ofissues involves determining the physical location of an endpoint deviceas a function of the series of connection devices in a transmissionroute. A remote processor determines a physical location for one or moreof the devices at different points in the transmission route. Often,multiple endpoint devices will transmit data through the samedata-routing device and can therefore be associated with the location ofthe shared data-routing device. A particular implementation populates alocation-based database using reporting data obtained from remotedevices. Data is collected from remote devices that send positionaldata. Information about the position of the endpoint device iscorrelated with routing devices used by the endpoint device. From thisinformation, physical locations are associated with the routing devices.

One embodiment of the present invention recognizes that perfect locationknowledge of Internet-based communications is next to impossible withoutsignificant changes to the underlying devices and protocols. Rather thanforce drastic changes and enforce strict requirements on Voice-overInternet Protocol (VoIP) providers and users, solutions with surprisingflexibility are provided while maintaining the cost-effectiveness of thesolution.

One issue with Internet Protocol-(IP) based communications is that therecan be a large number of different parties involved in providing asingle communication. For instance, a VoIP device can connect to anISP-provided modem through a local-area-network (LAN) having any numberof routing and control devices. The modem can connect to a local ISPgateway, which in turn, connects to a series of routers (e.g., Internetbackbone routers). The VoIP device might also use a remote VoIP serviceprovider to establish a connection with a called party (e.g., a remoteserver useful for establishing SIP connections). This is just oneexample of the myriad of different possibilities and shows the number ofdifferent devices and parties involved with even a simple VoIP call.

According to a specific implementation, IP devices are implemented toprovide “gold standard” data for location determinations. These goldstandard IP devices (GS devices) are specifically designed to provideaccurate and secure location information for helping to populate thelocation-based database. An example usage is to provide emergencypersonnel with GS devices. As the emergency personnel move betweendifferent locations, the GS devices can send data that is used topopulate those locations in the database. The GS devices can be carriedby the emergency personnel during responses, during work-relatedfunctions and also during personal activities as desired. The populationof the database through GS devices can be part of a coordinated effortto populate the database or population can occur organically asdifferent network connection points are encountered by GS device users.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the GS device usesa wireless connection to detect and connect through available wirelessnetworks. When a wireless network is detected, the GS device can be setto automatically connect or to prompt a user to initiate a connection.Unsecured networks present little difficulty; however, secured networksoften require a password or key to obtain access. One aspect of thepresent invention relates to providing position information for securednetworks. This can be accomplished by configuring wireless connectionpoints to allow access by GS devices without necessitating knowledge ofthe password or key by the GS device. If this access, however, is notcarefully implemented, it can introduce security risks for the wirelessconnection point. Accordingly, particular security measures can beincluded into this process and will be discussed in more detailhereafter.

Embodiments of the present invention relate to allowing GS authenticateddevices limited access. The access can be restricted in a manner thatdoes not present much of a security risk should the authentication ofthe GS device be compromised. For instance, an access point can limitthe amount of data transmitted and received by a GS authenticateddevice. This helps prevent significant bandwidth from being consumed bya GS device, as may occur if a nefarious party attempts to spoof a GSdevice to gain access to a secure network. Accordingly, a variety ofdata-limiting controls are implemented. One such control limits theamount of data any particular device can transmit during a particulartime period. Another control prevents transmission from undesiredlocations. Still other aspects limit the access to specific packetsand/or provide a GS-based encryption scheme that effectively maintainsisolation between the GS device and other devices that may be sharingthe access point.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a GS device is usedto allow for easy setup by system administrators and other users. In ageneric local-area-network (LAN) setting, there can be a large number ofconnection points spread out over a geographical area. For example, alarge office building may have data wiring throughout with multipleconnection points (e.g., RJ11 Ethernet outlets or wires) for variouscomputers. The GS device is configured to connect to the variousconnection points and to send location information for each connectionpoint to populate the database. The GS device can directly connect tothe connection point or connect through a computer, printer, wirelessrouter or other device. For instance, the GS device can includewireless-Ethernet (direct), wired-Ethernet (direct) and USB (throughanother device). Further details of this GS device and populationmethods using such a GS device are provided hereafter.

This can be particularly useful for allowing trusted individuals topopulate the database with known good data. For instance, a systemadministrator can walk around a facility with a handheld GS device toprovide information about different locations within the facility.

While GS devices provide a solid starting point for populating thelocation database, embodiments of the present invention are based uponthe recognition that such devices have their limitations. Accordingly anembodiment of the invention uses existing devices to provide additionaldata for populating the location database. This can take the form of apopulating application (PA) that is downloaded or otherwise installed oncommunication devices. The PA sends location information when thecommunication devices are connected to the Internet. This allows for aneffective mechanism to be used to populate the location database frominput from many different devices.

In one implementation, the PA is provided as part of a VoIP service. AVoIP user installs the PA as part of the setup process for the VoIPservice. The PA can be configured to provide population dataautomatically upon Internet connection, periodically, upon use of VoIPservices and/or upon prompting by a user or external source.

According to another implementation, the PA can be independent of VoIPservices. This can be useful for widening the source of devices thatprovide information for populating the database. The PA can be astandalone application or bundled with other applications. For instance,the PA can take advantage of people's willingness to help by allowingvoluntary downloads of the PA software.

According to a specific embodiment, the progress of the populating islinked to a map service, such as Google Maps™. PA users can checkcurrent population locations by linking to associated locations on(online) map services. This provides constant feedback to the PA usersto help incentivize participation. Moreover, the users can provideadditional location information using the mapping feature. Thus, whilevarious aspects of the present invention use efficient and accuratelocation algorithms to populate the database, a human element can alsobe used. This can be particularly useful for improving the accuracy ofthe location database using distributed input from many individuals.

One particularly useful embodiment implements the PA in the form of acompetition and/or game. Users are given credits, points or otherbenefits for providing accurate location information. In a particularimplementation, PA users can view the locations that they havepersonally mapped along with an accuracy rating for input that they haveprovided. This encourages users to validate and confirm automatedlocation information that their personal devices provide. PA users canalso compete against or with others, including their friends. This canbe facilitated by integrating the PA with social networking sites, manyof which provide links between friends and allow for applications to beeasily accessed from their respective websites. Other online services,such as Google Latitude™ or Foursquare™ provide mapping-based functionsthat can be used in coordination with a PA. These, and other, servicescan be integrated with the PA using APIs. The adoption of PAs cantherefore be broad-based and accessible through a variety of differentavenues.

Certain implementations provide rewards for providing populatinginformation. These rewards can be structured to incentivize particularinformation to be provided. For instance, the reward system can beconfigured to provide diminishing returns for additional informationfrom particular locations and/or access nodes. This encouragesparticipants to provide populating data for new locations rather thanproviding additional information for a location that is alreadysufficiently populated. Thus, public access points widely-used by manyparticipants would provide less reward points than relatively obscureaccess points. The reward points can be redeemed for a variety ofdifferent rewards. For instance, a VoIP provider might offer freeminutes or rebates on bills.

As another example, existing (or new) applications, such as Foursquare™,provide competitions for reporting locations and associated information.Aspects of the present invention integrate the location population withsuch applications. This can include, for instance, offering rewardsthrough these types of applications and/or receiving additional locationdata from the servers that provide these applications to users.

Accordingly, there are a number of different feedback mechanisms thatcan be used to provide users with feedback regarding their participationin populating a location database. The various feedbacks can beimplemented by associating incoming data with a user account and thenproviding the feedback to a particular device corresponding to the useraccount. Thus, the feedback can be sent directly to a user device, suchas a VoIP device, transmitted via email, made accessible over a website(e.g., via a social website) and/or in various other locations.

The collected and analyzed location information can be provided as partof a service that is useable by each of VoIP providers, emergencyservice providers, and government agencies. This service can be billedas a periodic charge, per users and/or based upon other factors.

Particular embodiments limit such transmission to a specific packet thatis tailored for this usage. The packet size is tightly controlled andprovides a limit on the amount of data transmitted. Packets that do notmeet the specific packet format can be easily filtered out beforereaching the server, e.g., using network firewall type hardware and/orsoftware.

Other embodiments of the present invention use both GS- and PA-enableddevices to populate the database. A particular usage of both devicesuses the GS-enabled devices as a benchmark to establish locations forthe PA-enabled devices. For instance, an adaptive algorithm is employedto determine the physical location from the provided data. This adaptivealgorithm can be initialized, weighted or taught using the GS-enableddata. For instance, the algorithm can determine how best to assessPA-provided data by assessing the results of GS-enabled data for similarlocations or situations. Examples include various adaptive learningalgorithms such as supervised classification.

Supervised classification can be implemented by labeling input data withknown position data from a GS device. A hypothesis algorithm is builtthat accurately matches this data and is used to establish locations forPA-enabled devices. This hypothesis algorithm, however, can be changedin response to inputs from PA-enabled devices. If the location data fromthe PA-enabled devices is consistently at odds with the hypothesis, thealgorithm will shift the hypothesis towards the data from the PA-enableddevices.

In certain implementations, the algorithm identifies predictors thathave high correlation to location information received from GS orPA-enabled devices. The data retrieved from the PA-enabled devices canbe limited to the highly-correlated predictors, thereby controlling theamount of data transmitted from the PA-enabled devices.

As discussed herein, population of the location database can beaccomplished by linking to nodes, within a connection/transmission routebetween a PA or GS enabled device, to physical locations. According toone implementation, nodes are assigned a proximate location based upondata obtained from endpoint devices. The proximate location can be setaccording to direct links between nodes. For instance, a node thatreceives connections from three other nodes will be assigned a locationthat is dependent upon the location of the three nodes. The sequencethat the data travels between nodes provides an indication ofassociation between the nodes. A number of algorithms for determiningtheir locations are possible. One particular example uses a learningnetwork approach in which nodes are connected by probability indicatorsthat are a function of the physical locations. The parameters that canbe used to assess and generate the probabilities can be based upon aprobable connection type (e.g., wireless, electrical or optical fiber),as well as the locations of the other nodes. Locations that are knownwith a high degree of certainty are heavily weighted to prevent movementof their locations by the algorithm. Locations with a low degree ofcertainty are allowed more freedom of movement.

Consistent with another embodiment of the present invention, a processorsystem is configured and arranged to use data from a populated locationdatabase to interface with a PSAP switch that routes calls in responseto ANI signals. The processor system determines the physical location ofthe caller using the populated location database. The PSAP switch has a911 location function that controls call routing according to receivedANI signals. In particular, the 911 location function can use a databaseof locations associated with various telephone numbers represented byANI signals. For VoIP users, however, the caller's telephone number isnot necessarily determinative of the caller's current location. Thus,rather than providing ANI signals corresponding to the caller'stelephone number, the processor system uses ANI signals corresponding tothe determined location. The PSAP switch will then route the callaccordingly.

The specifics of how such ANI signal control and PSAP routing arehandled can be accomplished according to different implementations.According to one specific implementation, the PSAP 911 location functionis configured with a set of reserved telephone numbers (or set of ANIsignals) that correspond to various physical locations within thedifferent PSAP service areas. As an example, consider the simplesituation of a first PSAP location in city A and a second PSAP locationin city B. The PSAP switches route calls with ANI signals linked to cityA to the first PSAP and those originating from city B to the second PSAPbased upon a database of ANI signals (i.e., caller numbers) definingwhich city the call originates from. For a VoIP call, the processorsystem determines whether the 911 call originates from city A or B. ThePSAP database includes a set of numbers reserved for VoIP calls and thatcorrespond to one of the cities. The VoIP call processor system usesthese reserved numbers by way of the ANI signals to help the PSAP switchcorrectly route the call.

A number of variations and additional components can be implemented asdesired. According to one such additional component, the reserved (ANI)numbers can indicate to the PSAP operator that the caller is using aVoIP connection. This allows for a variety of different options. Forinstance, the PSAP location can be enabled to access, or receive datafrom, the populated database for the purpose of determining a precisephysical location of the caller. This information can be providedautomatically with the call or in response to a request by the PSAPoperator. Other data that can be retrieved includes a call-back numberand a confidence factor as to the accuracy of the physical location.This confidence factor is discussed in more detail herein. In someimplementations, the set of numbers for a PSAP location can providefurther details regarding the location of the caller. For example, theset of numbers could correspond to respective areas within the city,thereby providing location information. The granularity of this locationis a function of the amount of numbers within the set as well as thesize of the geographic areas corresponding to each number.

In one instance, the provided ANI number is temporarily linked to theparticular VoIP caller. This linking allows the PSAP operator to callthe VoIP caller back using the ANI number regardless of the morepermanent VoIP telephone number. This helps alleviate the need tosomehow provide the more permanent VoIP telephone number as a call backoption.

In one implementation, the determined location information is also sentto the caller. In this manner, the caller can be made aware of thelocation information that is provided to the PSAP operator. The systemprovides an interface for the caller to confirm or edit the informationas necessary. This allows a secondary confirmation mechanism that can beseparate (or in addition to) verbal communications. One implementationestablishes a direct connection between the PSAP system and the callerto bypass the need for the VoIP service provider to handle the datatransfers. This confirmation mechanism can be augmented using variousmapping applications. For instance, the user can be prompted with aninteractive map. The user can zoom in and out and select their location,or even select a location of the emergency. This can be particularlyuseful for when a user is calling on behalf of others or to report aproblem that is not necessarily located at the same location as thecaller.

In some implementations the reserved ANI numbers can also be used toconvey additional data. For instance, within the same physical locationdifferent numbers can be assigned according to other relevantinformation. As a non-limiting example, certain ANI numbers can beassociated with the type of device used by the caller (e.g., whether ornot the device is a mobile device or a desktop computer). This type ofinformation can also indicate whether or not the device has otherconnection capabilities, such as cellular connections. For instance,some cellular-capable telephones can also connect using VoIPconnections. Knowledge of this capability can allow an emergencyoperator to attempt to locate the cellular device by having the cellularprovider locate the device and/or allow the emergency operator to usethe cellular connection to call back the individual.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to privacy and securityaspects. One concern of users may be the privacy of their locationinformation. Various steps are taken to protect the identity of anyparticular user. One implementation involves a one-way transmission ofdata from individual user devices to a location determination system.The location determination system operates in a listening mode tocollect the one-way transmissions. The one-way transmission need notsend data that would uniquely identify the user device because thelocation determination system does not respond to the transmission. Ifdesired, a unique identifier can be sent, however, the identifier can begenerated by the user device in a manner that does not allow theinformation system to identify the actual user device. For instance, theuser device can generate a random number and use this random number asthe identifier. This allows the location determination system toassociate data from particular user devices without havingidentification information that is used in other manners to identify theuser device (e.g., a MAC address). This type of association can beparticularly useful as a parameter in the location determinationalgorithm.

Various embodiments of the present invention relate to providing usefuldata to a PSAP operator. In particular, the PSAP operator can beprovided with a confidence factor that indicates the probability thatthe indicated location is correct. For instance, a non-mobile deviceconnecting through static connection point(s) for which a physicallocation has been confirmed, would have a relatively high confidencefactor, whereas a mobile device that often connects through manydifferent connection points and that is currently connected through aconnection point for which the physical location is only proximate,would have a relatively low confidence factor. The PSAP operator can usethis confidence to dispatch emergency personnel accordingly. Otherinformation can also be provided, such as how the confidence factor wasdetermined. For instance, the PSAP operator could be provided with thename of a server/node within the communication path. The PSAP operatorcould then independently assess the accuracy of the locationinformation.

As discussed herein, the location-database stores physical location datafor nodes other than just the endpoint devices. Thus, the location ofmobile endpoint devices can be determined as a function of physicallocation of the node to which the endpoint devices connect.Implementations of the present invention recognize that this flexibilityin endpoint devices can be particularly useful for applications otherthan traditional VoIP services. PSAPs are modified to have direct accessto the Internet. Endpoint devices other than those functioning as VoIPservices can connect to the Internet-enabled PSAPs. While the endpointdevices need not be so limited, one implementation uses relativelysecure endpoint devices to access the emergency services. For instance,the device could be a relatively small circuit that includes a key oridentifier that is registered as valid by the PSAP or VoIP serviceproviders. The Internet-enabled PSAPs would verify that the incomingemergency connection was from such a device, using the key oridentifier.

In one implementation, the device is a standalone device that functionsprimarily or only as an emergency device. In another implementation, thedevice is designed to interface with an Internet-capable device. Forinstance, new hand-held devices are entering the market and not all havevoice capabilities (e.g., Kindle™). The hand-held devices, nevertheless,have data access to the Internet. In one implementation the hand-helddevices include an emergency circuit or chip that can be enabled. Thecircuit or chip can contain a nonvolatile storage memory that contains asecurity key or identifier. This circuit can be accessed using a varietyof different protocols. For instance, a simple data communicationsprotocol is an I2C bus. The circuit could also communicate usingwireless communications, such as near field communications.

Once this circuit is enabled and/or verified, the hand-held deviceconnects to an Internet-enabled PSAP. Location information can beobtained from the hand-held device, if available, and also from thelocation database. To help avoid accidental enablement of the emergencycircuit, the emergency circuit can require physical detachment from thedevice, possibly coupled with insertion into the hand-held device.

FIG. 1A depicts a system diagram including a location database for usewith PSAP locations, consistent with an embodiment of the presentinvention. Remote devices in the form of GS devices 102 and PA devices104 provide location information through node access points 106. Thesedevices can provide location information obtained from GPS, localcellular towers, input from users and other sources. The GS and PAdevices have knowledge of the access point to which they are connectedand possibly other nodes 108 (e.g., gateways) further removed from theaccess point. The access point information and the location informationcan then be sent to VoIP provider 112 and/or a specific locationdetermination server 116 over a WAN 110 (e.g., the Internet). Thisinformation can then be stored in a location database 114. The locationdatabase 114 can be implemented using a tangible storage medium that caninclude one or more storage devices (e.g., hard disc drives and otherpersistent storage devices).

PSAPs 124 and 126 provide emergency services to calls from bothtraditional telephones 118 (e.g., landlines or cellular) and from VoIPdevices. Emergency service routing network 122 routes calls to theproper PSAP location and can receive inputs from the Public SwitchedTelephone Network (PSTN) 120 and/or WAN 110. The traditional model usesANI information to determine a PSAP that serves a physical locationassociated with the particular ANI number. The call is then routed tothe proper PSAP. New models for emergency services provide an IPinterface to receive emergency calls from individuals. This IP interfacecan be routed through the emergency service routing network 122 or sentdirectly to a PSAP.

The location determination server 116 can assimilate information from avariety of devices to assess the locations as a function of theirrespective connection points and the path through which communicationpasses. This allows the location of devices connecting through aparticular access point to be determined with an improved degree ofcertainty. Aspects of the present invention relate to the ability toassociate location information with numerous nodes used in thetransmission of the data between remote devices and the locationdetermination server 116. The location determination server can thenderive a location for a particular device as a function of the nodesthrough which a particular transmission is sent.

In some configurations a remote device does not have direct knowledge ofnodes beyond a local network. For instance, the remote device may belocated behind a NAT router, a firewall or similar node. Thus, theremote device's information may be limited to that relating to the LANon which it resides. This information, however, may still be veryuseful. For example, the nodes that the remote device has access to maynot be visible or directly accessible to external devices, such as thelocation determination server 116. Thus, the remote device (e.g., GSdevices 102 and PA devices 104) can provide this information to thelocation determination server 116. This can be done, for example, byplacing the information about the local nodes in the data-payloadportion of the communicated packets. Should the downstream nodes remove,replace or otherwise modify the TCP/IP level information, thisinformation can still be maintained.

To protect internal information about the LAN from being obtained by anundesirable party, the data can be encrypted. For instance, the data canbe encrypted using a public encryption key for which the locationdetermination server 116 has the private decryption key.

The location determination server 116 receives data from various remotedevices and uses an algorithm to determine the likely location for thedevices. The algorithm uses information about the access point and othertransmission nodes to make this determination. Some remote devices havethe capability to determine location from other sources (e.g., GPS,cellular, LORAN or other). The location determination server 116 canreceive such location information and then match the locationinformation against the results of the algorithm. The location can beadjusted accordingly and/or both sets of information can be maintainedto assist emergency personnel at a PSAP.

When an emergency call/request is placed by an IP device serviced by theVoIP provider 112, location information from location database 114 isused to route the call to the correct PSAP. For legacy PSAPs, the VoIPprovider 112 can modify the ANI information to assure that the call iscorrectly routed. The PSAP can reserve a number of ANI numbers forIP-based connections. The ANI number can therefore indicate both aprobable location of a caller and that the connection is IP-based. Thisinformation can be very useful to an emergency operator as it can helpdetermine the accuracy of the location information among other things.

The algorithm used to determine a probable location can also determine aconfidence level for the determined location. This confidence level canbe provided to the emergency operator so that it is clear that the calloriginates from an IP source for which the location may or may not bewell known. If the provided location does not have a high confidencelevel, the emergency operator can then attempt to confirm the locationthrough other means. These other means can include confirming thelocation by direct communication with the calling party. If this is notpossible or convenient, the system can provide the emergency operatorwith the ability to send out a request for additional locationinformation from other devices using the same access point. The requestcan be sent in the form of a broadcast message sent to an access pointof the endpoint device. The access point can then send an appropriaterequest to connected endpoint devices. Endpoint devices (e.g., PA and GSdevices) can be configured to detect this request and to provide anylocation information that they may have. Thus, while the calling devicemay not have GPS or similar capabilities, the emergency operator canstill receive this information from another device using the same accesspoint. In certain implementations, the broadcast request for additionallocation information can be sent in response to the confidence level ofthe location information being below a particular threshold.

An additional piece of information that can be stored in the locationdatabase is contact information for the operator of the access pointused by the calling party. This information can be used to notify theoperator of an emergency situation. In certain instances, a company-widenotification could be sent out over the LAN to warn all individuals of apotentially dangerous situation. This option could be provided to thePSAP operator using the LAN information stored in the location database114. Many companies and educational institutions provide LANs forindividuals located on their premises, thus, should there be anemergency call sent in by an individual located therein, individualsusing the LAN could be notified at the discretion of the PSAP operator.

In a particular embodiment, the PA includes functionality to receiveemergency notifications from PSAPs and other sources. The notificationsare detected by the PA and appropriate notification can be provided bythe device running the PA. This allows the use of a simple broadcasttransmission that is detected by any and all PA devices connected to aparticular node. If the location database 114 contains information aboutparticular access nodes, the broadcast can be targeted to specificaccess points as desired.

For instance, a user may call into an emergency services provider. Theuser might indicate to the emergency services operator that there is anemergency situation that affects a number of individuals in a physicallocation (e.g., a school, a building or within a certain radius of theemergency causing problem). The system can display a list of nodescorresponding to the physical location of interest to the emergencyoperator. An input interface allows the emergency operator to select oneor more of the nodes from the list of nodes. If necessary, the emergencyoperator can send a broadcast message to the appropriate nodes. Thebroadcast message can contain emergency instructions or other usefulinformation. The receiving access nodes recognize the emergency protocoland forward the broadcast message to connecting endpoint devices. Theconnecting endpoint devices recognize the broadcast message and can inturn provide appropriate warnings to individuals.

In a particular instance, the broadcast message is sent to an accessnode identified as supplying service to a university after an emergencyoperator receives notification that there is a gas leak, a bomb threator similar emergency. Endpoint devices receive the broadcast messageallowing for fast and efficient notification and instructions to be sentto many individuals.

The emergency broadcast message and associated protocol can be builtinto the PA, however, other applications can also recognize theemergency broadcast messages. The protocol can be implemented in avariety of manners. One method involves sending transmissions to an IPaddress that is reserved for emergency services. Other methods can useexisting broadcast protocols. To prevent unwanted use of emergencybroadcast messages, security protocols can be implemented to preventunauthorized devices from using the emergency broadcast protocols. Forinstance, the broadcast messages can use encrypted data to verify thatthe source of the data is valid. Public/Private key encryptiontechniques provide one mechanism for verifying the source of data, butare merely an example of possible verification techniques that could beemployed.

A particular embodiment is directed toward the use of a broadcastmessage to direct an endpoint device to connect to another transmissionthat can provide further information. For instance, the broadcastmessage can include one or more IP-multicast addresses for endpointdevices to connect with. The endpoint devices subscribe to theIP-multicast address to receive emergency information, such asnotifications and instructions. The IP-multicast or similar solutionallows for the information to be provided using text, audio and video asdesired.

FIG. 1B depicts an endpoint device 130 for providing data to a locationdatabase, consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. Thedevice of FIG. 1B is consistent with either a GS device or a PA device.In particular, a GS device can include a number of different interfacesthat allow for population from numerous types of access points. Thisallows for a GS device operator to provide database-populatinginformation for a large number of different locations. The GS devicecould then be given to, for example, a fire inspector so that the GSdevice is brought to each building being inspected. The inspector canmaintain/confirm location information for the GS device as necessaryand/or the location information can be automatically updated (e.g.,using location source 152). For instance, at the start of an inspectionof a building, the GS operator can enter or confirm the address of thebuilding using user input 150. The GS device can then connect to thelocal access points within the building and provide GS data to thelocation determination server 116. This connection can be implemented ina number of different manners.

In one implementation, the GS device can be granted direct access to anaccess point in a conventional manner. For instance, the GS device canconnect to an unsecured network through any of I/O ports 132-138. Theinspector could also be given security information (e.g.,login/password) to allow the GS device to connect to a secured network.This mechanism, however, requires a degree of coordination that canfrustrate the population of the locations for each access point.Accordingly, the system provides a method for automatic population froma GS device.

In certain implementations, the GS device is configured to send apriority message designed to assist in populating location informationfor any access points receiving the priority message. Some existingprotocols allow access from unauthorized devices for emergency purposes.The GS device could use such protocols to send populating data.Alternatively or in addition, modifications to the accesspoints/protocols could be implemented to provide GS-specific access. Forinstance, compatible wireless access points could be configured tolisten for broadcast messages from the GS device. These broadcastmessages can be wireless or wired and sent using various differentprotocols.

Certain implementations involve the ability to limit the access providedto a GS device, without severely hindering the ability to automaticallypopulate the location database. For instance, the GS access could belimited to very low data-bandwidths, only allowed for minimal connectiontime periods and/or limited to the use of a specific data communicationsprotocol or packet.

One such protocol operates by the GS device sending a request that allaccess points send a unique identifier to the location determinationserver 116. Access points that receive the requests send the uniqueidentifier, contained within a populating data packet, to the locationdetermination server 116 along with information identifying the accesspoint. The access points need not (but could) provide confirmation ofthis transmission to the GS device. In this manner, the GS device doesnot necessarily obtain any information about the access nodes that mayor may not be present. The GS device associates the unique identifierwith a current location. Subsequently, the GS device provides thecurrent location to the location determination server 116 in such amanner as to allow the location determination server 116 to correlatethe location information back to any unique identifiers received fromaccess points. This can be done by connecting the GS device to an accesspoint for transmission over the Internet, directly connecting the GSdevice to the location determination server, downloading the locationinformation to another device for transmission thereby or any number ofother methods. This procedure of automatically populating a locationdatabase with information about different access points can beparticularly useful because the GS device can operate in a substantiallyautomated mode that places minimal burdens on access points and thatpresents relatively low security risks.

The GS device can also transmit security information designed toauthenticate the GS device with one or both of an access point and thelocation determination server 116. For example, the security informationcan be a secure/encrypted identifier. The location determination server116 can decrypt and validate the identifier against a list of known goodidentifiers. The security information can be contained within the uniqueidentifier and/or sent as a separate piece of data.

PA devices can also use similar mechanisms as a GS device. However,given the relatively less secure nature of PA devices, access to securenetworks could be further limited or not allowed. For instance, updatesusing a communications channel/protocol reserved for allowingunauthorized devices access for the purpose of populating could belimited to GS devices by requiring certification to accompany anyrequest for such access. The certification could be in the form of anidentifier of the specific GS device.

A PA device (or a GS device) can simply populate the locationdetermination server 116 when connected to an access point that allowsfor normal communications. For example, when an owner of a PA deviceconnects to an access point, such as at a coffee shop or other business,the PA device could send populating/location information to locationdetermination server 116.

The various functions of the GS and PA devices can be carried out byprocessing circuit 142. Processing circuit 142 can include one or moreprocessors 144. Processor 144 can execute instructions stored in atangible storage medium 146 (e.g., Flash memory, RAM or a hard drive) tocarry out the various algorithms and steps discussed herein. Thetangible storage medium can include one or more storage devices (e.g.,hard disc drives and other persistent storage devices). Processor 144can interface with external inputs through I/O control circuits 140 and148. The specific inputs and outputs are not limited by the few examplesshown in FIG. 1B.

Consistent with various embodiments of the present invention, the GSdevice can be sold as a device specifically designed for populating alocation database. The device can include a programmed securityidentification/code that can be used to authenticate each device and tocorrelate information received with particular devices. In otherembodiments, certain individuals can be given access to a GS applicationthat can be downloaded and run on their personal devices (e.g., smartphones, GPS devices or laptops). Access to the GS application can belimited to trusted personnel so as to avoid erroneous data from beingintroduced in to the GS-based data. For instance, emergency personnel(e.g., homeland security, police, medical and firefighters) could begiven access to the GS application for downloading to a device that theyown or operate. The device could be a personal device or one issued bytheir employer or the government. Particular aspects relate tomaintaining an updated list of valid GS devices/applications. Forinstance, when an individual changes employment, their GS-applicationcan be deactivated. In a particular implementation each GS applicationis active for a limited time period (e.g., six months). After the timeperiod expires the GS application must be renewed and/or a newapplication downloaded. Control over the renewal could be as simple asrequiring that the renewal happen through a LAN only accessible tocurrently authorized personnel. In this manner, the employer orgovernment agency need not maintain a separate list of GS-authorizedpersonnel and can instead use existing restrictions on access tointernal LANs or the like.

FIG. 2 depicts a routing path with various nodes and associatedlocations, consistent with an embodiment of the present invention.Aspects of the present invention relate to mapping the route data takesthrough the network. Information about the various nodes involved can beused as inputs to determine the probable location of a particular node.From the probable locations of nodes within a particular path,information about the physical location of an endpoint device 202 cansubsequently be determined.

Existing protocols include methods for requesting information about theroute a packet takes. For example, the ‘traceroute’ tool requestsidentifying information from nodes within a routing path between asender and receiver. For security and other reasons, however, many nodesblock or do not respond to these types of requests. Accordingly, aspecific tool can be implemented that is reserved for population oflocation information. This tool includes a number of safeguards to helpalleviate concerns over divulging information regarding the layout of aparticular private network. One such safeguard allows a gateway node 208to encrypt the information before sending over the WAN. The gateway cancontrol where and how the information is sent to assure that it is notbeing routed to a nefarious location. Another safeguard allows a node touse an identifier that does not correspond to the true address of thenode. Thus, while the identifier is useful for distinguishing the nodefrom other nodes, it does not provide information useful to attempt tocommunicate with the node. For instance, instead of returning a set ofIP or MAC addresses for the nodes of a particular path, a set of pseudorandom numbers is used. If desired, these numbers can generateinformation unique to the node to help prevent two different nodes fromusing the same number or could simply be another unique identifierassigned to all nodes in a similar manner as a MAC address.

The location determination server 216 receives information about aparticular set of nodes used to transmit data from a remote device. Ifthe database 218 has not been populated for one or more of the nodes,then the location determination server 216 can generate locationinformation about the nodes. This location information can be generated,for instance, by associating the nodes with location informationprovided by a PA or GS device. Nodes closer to the PA or GS device inthe logical transmission sequence would generally be given a greaterassociation to the location information of the remote device. Forinstance, access points 204 could represent wireless or wired accesspoints. In either event, the likelihood of an endpoint device 202 beingphysically located near the access points 204 is relatively high.Further down the line, the node provided by a local carrier and/or anISP provider 206 is likely to be relatively distant from the endpointdevice 202. Thus, the association between the location of the endpointdevice 202 and this node 206 is likely less than that of the accesspoint. The associations, however, need not be limited strictly basedupon the logical distance between the nodes. Instead, aspects of thesystem allow the associations to be learned through analysis of locationinformation received from numerous GS or PA devices. Thus, for some(unknown) reason a logically distant node may provide a high level ofcertainty regarding the location of the endpoint device 202. This couldbe, for example, a side-effect of the type of device being used or aconfiguration of a particular network.

In this manner, the location data 210 for the nodes can be developedover time by accumulating more location data as it is received. In someimplementations, the true physical location of the node is notnecessarily represented by the location data. This is because thelocation data can be developed as a function of the relation of thenode's use to the probable location of an endpoint device that uses (ordoes not use) the particular node. A location for a particular node cantherefore be stored in the form of a geographic area based upon theprobability that an endpoint connected to the node is within thegeographic area. Thus, the location information might more accuratelyrepresent a service area for the node than the true physical location ofthe node. Notwithstanding, knowledge of the true physical location of anode can still be used and provided.

FIG. 3 depicts a diagram of nodes, their respective determined locationsand susceptibility to changes to the determined locations, consistentwith an embodiment of the present invention. The large circles representnodes and their logical connectivity with other nodes, e.g., asdetermined by a trace of the transmitted data. The small circlesrepresent currently-determined physical locations. Using connectionrelationships between the nodes and other data the location points canbe updated in a manner that selects a location that correctly models theassociation between an endpoint device's location and the use of thenode within the context of the entire system.

The springs attached to the current location represent resistance tochanges for each individual node. The spring strength, or weight, can bedetermined as a function of the confidence level for the particularlocation. Thus, nodes with high confidence levels will be more resistantto changes in location, while nodes with lower confidence levels will beallowed to change more readily. The location information can berepresented as a specific location or as one or more areas that anendpoint device is likely to be located within.

For instance, a node that serves as a gateway for a university may havea strong association with physical locations that correspond to thecampus of the university and surrounding areas. Thus, the locationinformation for this gateway may have a high association with endpointlocations at or near the campus and a low association with any otherphysical locations. Other nodes may service such a wide location so asto have a very low association with any particular area.Notwithstanding, even such nodes can be useful where, for instance, aparticular combination of nodes has a high association with a physicallocation.

FIG. 4 depicts a diagram of two geographically different PSAP areas andassociated portioning according to specified ANI numbers, consistentwith an embodiment of the present invention. Various embodiments of thepresent invention relate to the use of ANI numbers to route IP-basedemergency communications to an appropriate PSAP. In certainimplementations, a set of ANI numbers can be reserved for use in PSAProuting. These numbers are selected based upon a determined probablelocation for an IP-based communication.

As depicted in FIG. 4, each of PSAP-A and PSAP-B are responsible for arespective geographical area denoted by the respective circles. ANInumbers from the reserved set are assigned according to gridsidentifying different physical locations. For instance, PSAP-A coversareas that correspond to ANI numbers 1A-XA, and PSAP-B covers areas thatcorrespond to ANI numbers 1B-YB.

When an emergency IP-communication is requested, a probable location isdetermined for the requesting endpoint device. The ANI number associatedwith this probable location is then used to indicate the appropriategrid location. The call can then be routed using existing PSAP routingtechnology.

The Emergency operator can be provided with an indication that the callis IP-based. This can serve as an indication that the physical locationmay be imprecise. Moreover, additional information can be provided abouta more precise probable location for the calling party (e.g., through aseparate IP update from the location determination database).

This configuration can be particularly useful for providing backwardcompatibility with existing PSAP systems as they transition tosupporting IP-based communications. Moreover, the location database canbe constantly updated with new locations for various devices withouthaving to propagate the updates through each separate PSAP system. Thisis especially important for VoIP communications that are available tomobile devices that can connect from virtually anywhere.

In certain embodiments, there can be any number of ANI numbersassociated with the same location. The reserved ANI numbers within eachlocation can be used to convey additional information. For instance,some ANI numbers may indicate that there is additional informationavailable about the calling party. For instance, a VoIP provider oremergency location provider can store emergency information forsubscribing users. When the user places an emergency call, an ANI numberis selected that indicates to the emergency operator that suchinformation is available. In some instances, different ANI numbers canbe associated with different providers. The PSAP system canautomatically provide a link to the proper provider based upon thereceived ANI number. Should the emergency operator wish to review theadditional information, he/she need only select the provided link.

FIG. 5 depicts a diagram for determining and using a location algorithm,consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. In certainembodiments, the location determination server 116 is designed todynamically update the algorithm used to determine a probable locationfor an endpoint device and/or associated nodes. While a variety ofdifferent learning algorithms can be used for such updating, FIG. 5depicts a block diagram for a particular implementation.

Endpoint devices, such as GS, PA or emergency devices, can providedevice data 508 that is useful for determining a location thereof. Thisdevice data 508 can include a variety of different parameters. Aparticularly useful implementation allows the system to dynamicallyselect which parameters are most relevant and to make locationdeterminations. To accommodate the large number of potential parameters,it may not be desirable or even feasible to have each endpoint devicetransmit all possible parameters. Instead, the number of parameters canbe limited using a variety of mechanisms. In one implementation, a PA orGS device will transmit only a subset of all available parameters. Thesubset can be (among other things) randomly selected, weighted selectionor selected based upon input parameters, such as the type of access nodeto which the device is currently connected. The parameters sent can alsobe different for a populating-type transmission relative to an emergencytransmission. For instance, an emergency transmission may automaticallyselect the most relevant parameters in order to determine the locationwith a high probability.

An embodiment of the present invention uses training data 502 as a basisfor categorizing received data. When new device data is received 508, alocation module 504 can use the current location algorithm 506 todetermine a probable location for the endpoint device. Received devicedata 508 can also be used to update algorithms and/or parameters usedtherein.

An aspect of updating the algorithm involves identification of relevantfeatures 510 and the proper parameter values for the features 512. Fromthis information a parameter update 514 can be used to update thelocation algorithm.

Example learning algorithms that can be adapted for such use include,but are not limited to, supervised and unsupervised learning, Bayesiannetworks and neural networks.

FIG. 6 depicts an Internet-enabled device with an emergency circuit,consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. A number ofdevices provide some level of access to the Internet despite not beingused for voice communications. Currently, many of these devices do notprovide access to emergency services. Since many of these devices alsodo not include location determination sources like GPS, the conventionalwisdom suggests that they are ill-suited for such use. Aspects of thepresent invention however, recognize that intelligent determinationalgorithms for location information can be used in combination with suchdevices to provide access to emergency services.

A particular implementation is depicted in FIG. 6 in which an Internetcapable device 602 is configured to allow access to emergency services.In some instances, the device may have limited input capabilities. Forinstance, some electronic book-reading devices have wireless accessports, but do not necessarily have sophisticated user interfaces (e.g.,microphones, keyboards or the like). Thus, the traditional uses thereofare not particularly well-suited for use with emergency services.

Accordingly, such devices can be configured with a detachable emergencycircuit that, when removed and/or inserted back into the device,contacts emergency services. The location determination server 116receives a communication from the device and determines a probablelocation using information such as the connecting nodes, the device typeand/or information about the registered owner of the device.

The activation can present the user with a series of predefined optionsfor indicating the nature of the emergency. If the device is capable,the location determination server 116 can prompt the user to confirm thedetermined location.

In one embodiment an endpoint device includes an emergency circuit thatis activated to initiate a connection with emergency services. This canbe accomplished through the use of an external switch, card or otherhardware component. When a user is in an emergency situation, they canactivate the emergency circuit. In response to such activation, theendpoint device contacts the emergency service or PSAP using a networkinterface. Since the endpoint device may not have bidirectional (or evenunidirectional) audio capabilities, the endpoint device can communicatewith the emergency service using text or other means.

As an example, an electronic (book) reading device (e.g., a Kindle-typedevice) can include an emergency circuit and a network interface fordownloading new books. The emergency circuit can be activated to allowthe electronic reading device to connect to an emergency operator. Theemergency operator can send text information to a user and the readingdevice can display the text for the user. If the reading device has thecapability, the user can also send information back to the emergencyoperator.

The particular manner in which text-based communications are implementedcan depend upon the PSAP capabilities. For legacy PSAPs that functionprimarily using voice calls, an interface device, such as a computerprocessor with modem capabilities, can interface with the endpointdevice over standard telephone lines. For such an implementation, theactivation of the emergency circuit can include activation of amodem-type circuit that facilitates communications with the PSAPinterface devices. Other options allow the endpoint device to connect toa web-accessible (Internet) server, cellular SMS/MMS interface or thelike. The information can then be forwarded to a PSAP emergencyoperator.

In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the emergencycircuit is activated by insertion of an electronic key into an emergencyport of the device. The electronic key can be stored in a sealed portionof the device to prevent inadvertent emergency connections to beinitiated.

In certain embodiments, all or part of the emergency circuit can beimplemented using a specially programmed processor.

FIG. 7 depicts a system for calculating and assigning incentives forproviding populating data, consistent with an embodiment of the presentinvention. PA, GS or other devices provide populating data to a locationdetermination server for storage in a location database. The locationdetermination server can be configured to communicate with other devicesor servers to credit/incentivize users that provide populating data. Afew, non-limiting examples of devices or servers that might receive andprovide incentives include social websites, VoIP providers andgovernment websites (e.g., providing incentive to assist emergencyservices).

The amount of the credit/incentive can be calculated as a function ofthe usefulness of the information provided. For instance, table 702shows that a correlation can be established between various locations,access points and/or transmission nodes, and the confidence level of thelocation thereof. From this correlation a reward value can be assignedfor users that provide populating data. This reward value can then beassociated and credited to an appropriate user account as shown by table704. A user can then use the accumulated reward value to receive somebenefit and/or be shown their respective rank relative to other users.Other factors that can be used to calculate the reward value include theaccuracy and usefulness of the information. For instance, anactive/current GPS-based location can provide a high level of accuracyand a user can be credited appropriately. Similarly, extra reward pointscan be credited if the user manually confirms the location information.

The accumulation of reward points and the corresponding benefits to auser can be implemented by a variety of different parties. In oneimplementation, the operator of the information database can accumulatethe reward points and also provide associated benefits. This isparticularly useful where the operator of the information database alsoprovides other services that users can benefit from. For instance, theoperator might provide VoIP services and provide users with discounts orfree minutes. In another implementation, a third party can handle theaccumulation of the reward points and the distribution of associatedbenefits or services. Combinations of these implementations are alsopossible.

In certain embodiments, a service or website can prompt users to submitpopulating data. For instance, a user might access a social websiteusing an endpoint device connected to a particular access node. Thesocial website can prompt the user to provide populating information.This prompting can be implemented in a wholesale, random or targetedmanner. For instance, the prompting could be offered to all users,random sets of users or to specific users. The targeted promptingconsiders factors such as the type of endpoint device being used as wellas the use of an endpoint location for which populating data is desired.

These and other aspects of the present invention can be implemented in anumber of different manners including, but not limited to, storedexecutable data on tangible medium, computer processors, programmablelogic, hardware circuit logic and combinations thereof. Aspects of thepresent invention can be implemented using general purpose computersthat have been specially configured with instructions stored on atangible medium. Various functions described herein are thereby able tobe carried out by modifying one or more general purpose computers tofunction as specially-programmed computers. It is also possible thatvarious functions can be implemented through the design of electronichardware logic devices. Accordingly, there is flexibility that allowsfor a device to use stored instructions, specially programmed logiccircuits, discrete logic, programmable logic devices and combinationsthereof.

The various embodiments described above are provided by way ofillustration only and should not be construed to limit the invention.Based upon the above discussion and illustrations, those skilled in theart will readily recognize that various modifications and changes may bemade to the present invention without strictly following the exemplaryembodiments and applications illustrated and described herein. Forexample, the methods, devices and systems discussed herein may beimplemented in connection with voice-over Internet services, streamingmedia and call-processing. The invention may also be implemented using avariety of approaches such as those involving a number of differentoperating systems and software programs/packages. Such modifications andchanges do not depart from the true spirit and scope of the presentinvention, including that set forth in the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for use with a plurality of endpointdevices, each endpoint device being configured and arranged to providephysical location data about the physical location of the endpointdevice to an external network, the apparatus comprising: a wirelesscommunication circuit configured and arranged to receive over one ormore wireless communication channels, venue information thatcharacterizes physical location data corresponding to at least twonetwork access points for each of the plurality of endpoint devices; anda server configured and arranged with a memory circuit to respond to thewireless communication circuit by receiving the venue information fromone of the plurality of the endpoint devices; calculating respectivephysical locations for one or more nodes in a transmission route betweensaid one of the plurality of the endpoint devices and the server, as afunction of the venue information and the transmission route; storingthe calculated respective physical locations corresponding to the one ormore nodes in a transmission route; and in response to an emergency callfrom a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) device: identifying one ormore nodes in a transmission route used to send data from the VoIPdevice; retrieving the stored physical locations for the identifiednodes; and providing a probable physical location for the VoIP device toan emergency operator based on the stored locations for the identifiednodes and a probable location algorithm that is configured and arrangedto: assign respective weightings to the calculated physical locations ofa plurality of the nodes based on a degree of certainty of the locationdata, the location data of the endpoint device having a greatercertainty than other end point devices indicated by the probablelocation algorithm.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, further including theplurality of endpoint devices.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein eachof the endpoint devices is a wireless handheld device including adisplay.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the server is furtherconfigured and arranged to use physical location data obtained from theendpoint device as a training dataset for a learning algorithm thatdefines the probable location algorithm.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein a processing circuit in the endpoint device is furtherconfigured to provide feedback to users of the endpoint device in theform of a system linked to a social networking application.
 6. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the server is further configured to updatea current calculated physical location for the one or more of theidentified nodes in the transmission route based upon receipt ofadditional populating data.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein acalculated physical location for one of the identified nodes in thetransmission route is a geographic area determined as a function of theprobability that an endpoint device connected to one of the identifiednodes in the transmission route is within the geographic area.
 8. Theapparatus of claim 1, further including the plurality of endpointdevices, wherein each of the endpoint devices is a wireless handhelddevice including a display.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1, furtherincluding the plurality of endpoint devices, wherein each of theendpoint devices is a wireless handheld device including a display, andwherein each endpoint device is configured and arranged to transmit adata packet to at least two network access points.
 10. The apparatus ofclaim 1, further including the plurality of endpoint devices, whereineach of the endpoint devices is a wireless handheld device including adisplay, and wherein each endpoint device is configured and arranged totransmit a data packet to at least two network access points, the datapacket including a unique identifier of the endpoint device, and arequest for the network access point receiving the request to send adata transmission that includes the unique identifier to the locationdetermination server that is remote from the network access point, andfor the network access point to add a respective identifier of theaccess point to the data transmission.
 11. The apparatus of claim 1,further including the plurality of endpoint devices, wherein each of theendpoint devices is a wireless handheld device including a display, andwherein each endpoint device is configured and arranged to transmit adata packet to at least two network access points, and subsequent totransmission of the data packet, transmit the one or more populatingdata packets to the location-determination server with informationcorrelating the physical location data in the one or more populatingdata packets with the unique identifier of the endpoint device.
 12. Theapparatus of claim 1, further including the plurality of endpointdevices, wherein each of the endpoint devices is a wireless handhelddevice including a display, and wherein each endpoint device isconfigured and arranged to transmit a data packet to at least twonetwork access points without establishing a bidirectional communicationwith the at least two network access points, the data packet including aunique identifier of the endpoint device; and a request for the networkaccess point receiving the request to send a data transmission thatincludes the unique identifier to the location determination server thatis remote from the network access point, and for the network accesspoint to add a respective identifier of the access point to the datatransmission; and subsequent to transmission of the data packet,transmit the one or more populating data packets to thelocation-determination server with information correlating the physicallocation data in the one or more populating data packets with the uniqueidentifier of the endpoint device.
 13. An apparatus for use with aplurality of endpoint devices, each endpoint device being configured andarranged to provide physical location data about the physical locationof the endpoint device to an external network, the apparatus comprising:a wireless communication circuit configured and arranged to receive overone or more wireless communication channels, venue information thatcharacterizes physical location data corresponding to at least twonetwork access points for each of the plurality of endpoint devices; andserver means for responding to the wireless communication circuit forreceiving the venue information from one of the plurality of theendpoint devices; calculating respective physical locations for one ormore nodes in a transmission route between said one of the plurality ofthe endpoint devices and the server, as a function of the venueinformation and the transmission route; storing the calculatedrespective physical locations corresponding to the one or more nodes ina transmission route; and in response to an emergency call from a Voiceover Internet Protocol (VoIP) device: identifying one or more nodes in atransmission route used to send data from the VoIP device; retrievingthe stored physical locations for the identified nodes; and providing aprobable physical location for the VoIP device to an emergency operatorbased on the stored locations for the identified nodes and a probablelocation algorithm that is configured and arranged to: assign respectiveweightings to the calculated physical locations of a plurality of thenodes based on a degree of certainty of the location data, the locationdata of the endpoint device having a greater certainty than other endpoint devices indicated by the probable location algorithm.
 14. For usewith a plurality of endpoint devices, each endpoint device beingconfigured and arranged to provide physical location data about thephysical location of the endpoint device to an external network, amethod comprising: receiving over one or more wireless communicationchannels, venue information that characterizes physical location datacorresponding to at least two network access points for each of theplurality of endpoint devices; and responding to the wirelesscommunication circuit by receiving the venue information from one of theplurality of the endpoint devices; calculating respective physicallocations for one or more nodes in a transmission route between said oneof the plurality of the endpoint devices and the server, as a functionof the venue information and the transmission route; storing thecalculated respective physical locations corresponding to the one ormore nodes in a transmission route; and in response to an emergency callfrom a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) device: identifying one ormore nodes in a transmission route used to send data from the VoIPdevice; retrieving the stored physical locations for the identifiednodes; and providing a probable physical location for the VoIP device toan emergency operator based on the stored locations for the identifiednodes and a probable location algorithm that is configured and arrangedto: assign respective weightings to the calculated physical locations ofa plurality of the nodes based on a degree of certainty of the locationdata, the location data of the endpoint device having a greatercertainty than other end point devices indicated by the probablelocation algorithm.